"American Idol" judge Harry Connick Jr. joked around with Hayley Noelle Pettinato when the Sandy Hook teen auditioned for this season's series. When it was revealed she had earned a ticket to Hollywood on Wednesday's premiere, friends and family celebrated at her home, where they had gathered for a viewing party.

"Neighbors and friends were here and it was lots of fun," said Pettinato's mother, Laura Pettinato.

Hayley Pettinato, 17, is one of three Connecticut residents set to compete in the 13th season of Fox television's "American Idol." A singer and songwriter, she shared her excitement about her latest musical endeavor on Twitter and Facebook.

She tweeted: "This is so crazy!! Thanks to everyone for the support! They didn't show my audition, but I got 3 "yesses" and will be going on to Hollywood!"

Pettinato is not permitted to discuss the competition with the media now, but you can learn more about her and her music on her YouTube channel, where you can see and hear her sing.

She has co-written six original songs with producer and writer Frankie Vinci. One of them is called "Break Me." According to her Facebook site, she recently shot a community service music video of "Break Me" and a public service announcement to promote awareness of teen-dating violence.

Wednesday's "American Idol" was recorded, in part, during the show's Boston auditions in September. Auditions will continue to air on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Next month, viewers will get to see the golden-ticket holders start competing in California.

Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban are judges on this season's "American Idol," along with Connick. The show attracts thousands of contestants and is still hosted by Ryan Seacrest. In the end, with help from viewers, one contestant will walk away with a record deal.